What is lemon myrtle?
Lemon myrtle is a native Australian tree whose leaves have a strong lemon scent and flavor. It is used in cooking, teas, desserts and skincare products, and is one of the most popular Australian native ingredients.
The tree, Backhousia citriodora, grows naturally in subtropical rainforests of Queensland. Its leaves contain high levels of citral, the compound that gives lemons their smell.
Aboriginal people have used lemon myrtle for flavoring and medicinal purposes. Today, it is grown in plantations, mainly in Queensland and northern New South Wales.
Uses in cooking
The dried leaves can be ground into a powder and used in baking, marinades, dressings and desserts. Lemon myrtle tea is also popular.
Lemon myrtle pairs well with seafood and chicken and is used in cheesecakes, shortbread and ice cream. It provides a lemon flavor without the acidity of lemon juice.
Lemon myrtle oil is used in soaps, cleaning products and cosmetics because of its fresh scent and antimicrobial properties. The tree is also grown as an ornamental plant in gardens.
Lemon myrtle is often sold as dried leaves, ground powder or tea bags in specialty stores and supermarkets, and it is a common ingredient in native spice blends.